Culture Ireland, in partnership with the Arts Council, is pleased to announce the appointment of the team who will represent Ireland at the Architecture Biennale in Venice. The Commissioner, Elizabeth Francis and Curator, John Mc Laughlin were selected through open competitive processes and have chosen to deliver a presentation on the dynamic Irish practice, Heneghan Peng Architects.

heneghan peng architects are currently working across four continents on a wide range of competition-winning projects. Several of these are in sensitive and symbolic sites that include three UNESCO World Heritage sites. John McLaughlin curator said "heneghan peng exemplify the globally networked ways of making architecture that are now possible, and as an emerging international practice they demonstrate the direction in which Irish architecture can evolve in the future"

Both Elizabeth Francis, who is currently based in Bologna and John McLaughlin have considerable international experience and have had direct involvement in delivery of cultural projects both at home and abroad. Through this presentation in Venice they aim to highlight the global reach of Irish architects and the world-class work they have produced.

Eugene Downes, CEO of Culture Ireland said "The Venice Architecture Biennale is the greatest world showcase for presentation of architectural talent and through the presentation of heneghan peng we will be afforded the opportunity to promote the high quality, dynamism and strong reputation of Irish architects around the world."

Orlaith McBride, Director of the Arts Council, said “The Arts Council is once again proud to support Ireland’s representation at the Venice Architecture Biennale. The work of heneghan peng architects demonstrates how Irish architecture is currently at the forefront of international practice. Ireland’s representation at Venice this year provides our country with another opportunity to showcase the breadth and richness of the arts in Ireland to international audiences.”

Ireland at Venice is an initiative of Culture Ireland in partnership with the Arts Council.